Why I stopped Using the “R” Word in January

You’re probably thinking to yourself “Lindsay, January is over!?”

Well, as January ended EVERYONE was doing their check-ins…

“How are you? Are you succeeding? Let’s hit those goals!” And on and on and on!

Now February has come to a close and I hear crickets. You?

Did you know that studies show people tend to only stick with the “r word” for 2-3 months due to the loftiness of their initial goals?

I’m sorry if this is the start of your year. You’re seeing the messages and it’s triggering because maybe you aren’t feeling accomplished at this timeframe? The program you are striving to follow maybe set some unrealistic goals for you to adhere to?

Here’s why:

The messaging started in December didn’t it?  You found something that “spoke to you” and you set sail to begin on JANUARY 1 as most people do! This was going to be your year!

But here’s the first thing, why January 1? We always like to wait for a Monday, or the start of a new month, or the start of the new year but maybe we need to start thinking in the now. Thursday at 2pm? Why not!?

Rather than a once-a-year commitment, the emphasis is now on building habits and fostering consistency throughout the year. We are realizing that long-term success lies in sustainable, gradual changes rather than the drastic, short-lived alterations that resolutions often demand. Acknowledge that goals may change throughout the week, month, and definitely the year. Rather than rigidly adhering to a specific timeframe that resolutions encourage, let’s be open to adjusting based on our evolving needs and circumstances.

Here are a few easy ways to gradually reintroduce exercise if you feel like you need a kickstart in a more attainable way:

1. Compound your habits, meaning if you have one good habit already accomplished within your day and you want to add something new then attempt to do them together to be more successful. So maybe you’re really good with your morning skincare routine, you never miss it. How about adding in a movement break at the same time or right after? Yep! Exercise in the bathroom! Squats at the counter, heel raises while you brush your teeth, leg raises while you curl your hair?

2. Choose one day and time for a month. Once you’ve hit 4 consecutive weeks add in a second day, then a third and so on.

3. Select two full-body workouts and stick with them. Contrary to the ever suggesting fitness industry, you can follow one plan consistently for a long period of time and still achieve results. You will actually achieve better results than those that are constantly doing something new every day or week. As you become more accustomed to the challenge of the two workouts you’ll naturally want to do more.

4. Begin with 5 minutes. Even if you’re not in the mood. If you feel like continuing after that then go ahead. But starting small is important. I always ask my clients “how much time in your day do you realistically have to devote to movement?”. We plan around life and you have to too!

Embracing a more flexible, holistic, and consistent approach to self-improvement allows individuals to break free from the cycle of short-lived resolutions. As we bid farewell to this old-fashioned tradition, let's welcome the prospect of ongoing growth, mindful goal-setting, and the pursuit of a healthier, more balanced life throughout the year.

This is where personalization meets results. Let’s get this ball rolling once and for all and create the habit you’ve been seeking, a more active lifestlye with results. Click here to book your FREE, no obligation consult! Say good-bye to daily struggles and hello to living a limitless, active life!

Disclaimer

This Movement to Bloom blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to offer medical advice, or replace the recommendations of your Doctor, Midwife, Physical Therapist or Medical Practitioner. Always consult your Doctor before beginning any exercise program. Movement to Bloom will not be held responsible in any way for circumstances, conditions or injuries that result directly or indirectly from information provided.